Enigma of happiness

Alfred Hitchcock said, "Happiness is a clear horizon."

Feelings of joy or excitement are not happiness; happiness is a place of contentment.

The problem arises when we place happiness so high on our list of priorities that we forget it comes from taking action. Yes, I'm not against happiness; it is desirable. However, we have overrated its significance. Happiness alone cannot define our existence. We must acknowledge that the positives in life are intrinsically tied to the negatives we encounter.

Here's a silly example I came up with while writing:

Imagine negative emotions as a hole in the ground. The depth of this hole directly corresponds to the level of suffering we endure. On the other hand, positive emotions can be likened to pouring sand back into the hole. The amount of sand we pour is determined by the size of the hole, which indicates our suffering. Hence, the greater our suffering, the more profound our capacity for happiness.

Happiness is not the ultimate goal but rather a byproduct of a well-lived life. Just as what goes up must come down, happiness is fleeting, and blindly chasing it will only lead to disappointment. Instead, focus on your purpose, and happiness is assured.

Here are a few things to prioritize in order to find genuine happiness:

1. Find profound and lasting contentment that goes beyond the ephemeral pursuit of happiness.

2. Focus on your close relationships.

3. Be grateful.

4. Read to gain perspective.

5. Choose long term things over short term things.